Falles: A Time-Honored Tradition

Falles: A Time-Honored Tradition

Falles is an annual tradition celebrated in Valencia, Spain, during the month of March. This festival dates back to the 18th century and is considered one of the most important cultural events in the region. The main attraction of the Fallas festival is the creation and display of intricate and elaborate sculptures made of wood, paper-mache, and other materials. These sculptures, known as «fallas,» are displayed in the streets of Valencia and are often satirical in nature, depicting politicians, celebrities, and current events.

History of Fallas

The Fallas festival has its roots in ancient pagan rituals celebrating the arrival of spring. Over time, these rituals evolved into a more elaborate and organized event, with the creation of the fallas sculptures becoming a central focus. The festival also has religious significance, as it is held in honor of Saint Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters.

Highlights of the Festival

One of the highlights of the Fallas festival is the daily «Mascletà» fireworks display, which takes place in the Plaza del Ayuntamiento. This explosive display of sound and light is a thrilling experience for both locals and tourists alike. Another popular event is the «Ofrenda de Flores,» where thousands of people parade through the streets of Valencia, offering flowers to the statue of the Virgin Mary.

The Burning of the Fallas

The culmination of the Fallas festival is the «Crema,» where all the fallas sculptures are set on fire in a spectacular display of flames and fireworks. This symbolic act represents the cleansing of the old and the welcoming of the new. The burning of the fallas is a bittersweet moment for the people of Valencia, as they say goodbye to these magnificent works of art, but also look forward to the next year’s festival.